Air Fryer Marie Callender's Country Fried Chicken and Gravy

Air Fryer Marie Callender's Country Fried Chicken and Gravy

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 30-35 minutes

Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Servings: 1 meal

Ingredients:

• 1 frozen Marie Callender's Country Fried Chicken and Gravy entree (includes breaded chicken, gravy, mashed potatoes, and vegetables).

• Optional: Fresh parsley, cracked black pepper, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for garnish.

Equipment:

• Air fryer (large enough to fit the container).

• Meat thermometer (optional, for checking the chicken’s internal temperature).

• Oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves.

• Tongs or a heat-resistant spoon.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer:

   • Set your air fryer to 350°F (177°C).

   • Allow it to preheat for 3-5 minutes to ensure even heating.

2. Prepare the Frozen Meal:

   • Remove the Country Fried Chicken and Gravy entree from its box.

   • Leave the plastic film intact but pierce it in 5-7 spots with a fork or knife to allow steam to escape.

3. Place the Meal in the Air Fryer Basket:

   • Position the container flat in the air fryer basket. Ensure it sits securely to avoid spilling the gravy.

   • If the container doesn’t fit, transfer the contents to an air fryer-safe or oven-safe dish and cover loosely with foil.

4. Cook the Meal:

   • Set the timer for 30 minutes.

   • At the 15-minute mark, pause the air fryer. Carefully remove the basket and stir the mashed potatoes and vegetables to ensure even heating. Spoon some gravy over the chicken to keep it moist.

   • Re-cover loosely with the pierced plastic film or foil and return it to the air fryer.

5. Check for Doneness:

   • After 25 minutes, check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C).

   • If needed, cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring the sides occasionally to prevent dryness.

6. Optional Step for Extra Crispiness:

   • For a crispier texture on the chicken, transfer it directly to the air fryer basket during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Increase the temperature to 375°F (190°C) for a lightly crispy finish.

   • Stir the mashed potatoes and vegetables again to keep them warm.

7. Serve Your Meal:

   • Carefully remove the container or dish from the air fryer using oven mitts.

   • Plate the chicken with mashed potatoes, vegetables, and gravy. Garnish with fresh parsley, cracked black pepper, or smoked paprika for added flavor.

Tips for Success:

• Keep the Gravy Moist: Stir the gravy halfway through cooking and spoon it over the chicken and mashed potatoes.

• Enhance the Meal: Pair with a side of roasted corn or a crisp green salad for a complete dish.

• Adjust Cooking Times: Monitor closely as air fryer performance may vary by model.

FAQ:

Can I cook multiple meals at once?

It’s best to cook one meal at a time for even heating and crispy chicken.

What if the vegetables are still cold?

Stir them thoroughly and return to the air fryer for an additional 3-5 minutes.

Can I customize the toppings?

Absolutely! Add shredded cheese, hot sauce, or even a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor. Air Fryer Marie Callender's Country Fried Chicken and Gravy